Once-daily Extended-release Formulation Research Articles

Guiding the starting dose of the once-daily formulation of tacrolimus in "de novo" adult renal transplant patients: a population approach.

The once-daily extended-release tacrolimus formulation (ER-Tac) has demonstrated similar efficacy and safety to the twice-daily immediate-release formulation (IR-Tac), but few population-based pharmacokinetic models have been developed in de novo kidney transplant patients to optimize doses. Therefore, this study aimed i) at developing a population pharmacokinetic model for ER-Tac in de novo adult kidney transplant patients ii) and identifying genetic factors and time-varying covariates predictive of pharmacokinetic variability to guide tacrolimus dosage during the early post-transplant period. A total of 1,067 blood tacrolimus concentrations from 138 kidney transplant patients were analyzed. A total of 29 out of 138 patients were intensively sampled for 24h on the day 5 post-transplantation; meanwhile, for the remaining patients, concentrations were collected on days 5, 10, and 15 after transplantation. Tacrolimus daily doses and genetic and demographic characteristics were retrieved from the medical files. Biochemistry time-varying covariates were obtained on different days over the pharmacokinetic (PK) study. A simultaneous PK analysis of all concentrations was carried out using the non-linear mixed-effects approach with NONMEM 7.5. A two-compartment model with linear elimination and delayed absorption best described the tacrolimus pharmacokinetics. Between-patient variability was associated with oral blood clearance (CL/F) and the central compartment distribution volume (Vc/F). Tacrolimus concentrations standardized to a hematocrit value of 45% significantly improved the model (p < 0.001). This method outperformed the standard covariate modeling of the hematocrit-blood clearance relationship. The effect of the CYP3A5 genotype was statistically (p < 0.001) and clinically significant on CL/F. The CL/F of patients who were CYP3A5*1 carriers was 51% higher than that of CYP3A5*1 non-carriers. Age also influenced CL/F variability (p < 0.001). Specifically, CL/F declined by 0.0562 units per each increased year from the value estimated in patients who were 60years and younger. The 36% between-patient variability in CL/F was explained by CYP3A5 genotype, age, and hematocrit. Hematocrit standardization to 45% explained the variability of tacrolimus whole-blood concentrations, and this was of utmost importance in order to better interpret whole-blood tacrolimus concentrations during therapeutic drug monitoring. The dose requirements of CYP3A5*/1 carriers in patients aged 60years or younger would be highest, while CYP3A5*/1 non-carriers older than 60years would require the lowest doses.

Pemafibrate has a novel mechanism of action to lower LDL-C and ApoB in patients with higher LDL-C levels: Insights from a phase 2 exploratory clinical pharmacology crossover study

Abstract Background Pemafibrate, a selective PPARα modulator (SPPARMα), decreases plasma TG and increases HDL-C. The effects of pemafibrate on cardiovascular outcomes were examined in patients with type 2 diabetes, moderately high TG, and low HDL-C who were on statin therapy (the PROMINENT trial) [1]. Against our expectation, the intervention with pemafibrate did not reduce the outcomes. The increases in LDL-C and ApoB observed in the trial may have mitigated the beneficial effects of lowering TG and remnants. On the contrary, pemafibrate decreased LDL-C and ApoB in some of the clinical trials conducted in Japanese population [2, 3], suggesting that the effects of pemafibrate on LDL-C and ApoB may vary depending on the target patient population. Purpose To clarify the mechanisms behind the LDL-C-lowering effects of pemafibrate, we evaluated the effects of pemafibrate on serum levels of lathosterol, beta-sitosterol and campesterol, surrogate markers for cholesterol synthesis and absorption. Methods This is a post hoc analysis of a Phase 2 study comparing a once-daily extended-release formulation (ER) of pemafibrate to a twice-daily immediate-release formulation (IR). The study was a multicentre, randomized, single-blind, 3-treatment, 2-period crossover clinical trial. Patients with fasting serum TG &amp;gt;150 mg/dL were treated with IR 0.2 mg/day (IR0.2), ER 0.4 mg/day (ER0.4), or ER 0.8 mg/day (ER0.8) for 4 weeks in each treatment period. We measured serum levels of TG, LDL-C, ApoB, lathosterol (a cholesterol synthesis marker), and beta-sitosterol and campesterol (cholesterol absorption markers) before and after the intervention and evaluated their correlations. Results Among 63 patients randomized, 60 received the study drug. At baseline, the mean TG was 221.3 mg/dL, LDL-C was 134.5 mg/dL, and 10% of patients were concomitantly treated with a statin. The least squares mean percentage changes from baseline at 4 weeks were -43.6%, -41.1%, and -39.7% for TG, -3.5%, -7.0%, and -11.3% for LDL-C, and -9.8%, -11.9%, and -13.4% for ApoB with IR0.2, ER0.4, and ER0.8, respectively, which were significant except for LDL-C with IR0.2. Lathosterol, beta-sitosterol, and campesterol significantly decreased with each dose (see Fig.). The percentage change in LDL-C was positively correlated with those in the synthesis and absorption markers. There was a trend that the reductions in LDL-C and lathosterol increased in a dose-dependent manner. The reduction in LDL-C was larger in the subgroup with higher baseline levels than those with lower baseline levels. Conclusion Pemafibrate reduced serum levels of LDL-C and ApoB. In parallel, they reduced serum markers for cholesterol synthesis and absorption. Because the percentage changes in LDL-C were significantly correlated with those in the absorption and synthesis markers, we would propose that pemafibrate reduced LDL-C by inhibiting both synthesis and absorption of cholesterol.

Assessment of Dose Proportionality of Three Dose Strengths (6 mg, 12 mg and 24 mg) over the Clinical Dose Range (6–48 mg) of the Newly Developed Once-Daily Extended Release Tablet Formulation of Deutetrabenazine (P2-11.016)

<h3>Objective:</h3> To assess dose proportionality of three dose strengths (6mg, 12mg and 24mg), and across recommended clinical dose range (6mg – 48mg), for the once-daily (QD) extended-release tablet formulation of deutetrabenazine. <h3>Background:</h3> Deutetrabenazine (Austedo, Teva), a twice-daily (BID) formulation, is an approved treatment (daily doses 6–48mg) for tardive dyskinesia and chorea associated with Huntington disease. The new QD formulation has shown to deliver similar daily exposure to the BID formulation. <h3>Design/Methods:</h3> In a randomized phase 1 study (Study TV50717-PK-10175), healthy adult males and females (n=116) received single administrations of the QD formulation in a fed state (2×6mg, 1×12mg, 1×24mg, 2×24mg). Safety was assessed, and pharmacokinetic (PK) blood samples were collected pre-dose and up to 96 hours post-dose. Geometric mean ratios (GMRs) and 90% CIs were computed for PK parameters (maximum plasma concentration [C_max], area under the plasma concentration curve from time 0 to 36 hours [AUC_0–36h] and extrapolated to infinity [AUC_0-inf]) of deutetrabenazine, and active metabolites, deuterated α-HTBZ and β-HTBZ (individually and as a sum). A power model was fitted to describe the relationship between dose and PK parameters using a mixed model with sequence, period, and dose as fixed effects; and subject as random effect. To determine dose proportionality starting at 6mg, relative bioavailability was assessed between 2×6mg and 1×12mg. <h3>Results:</h3> GMRs and 90% CIs for C_max and AUCs fell within the bioequivalence limits of 80.00%–125.00%, demonstrating similarity between 2×6mg and 1×12mg tablets. Dose proportionality was demonstrated for all PK parameters and all analytes for QD formulation dose strengths 6mg, 12mg, and 24mg; and over the clinical dose range (6–48mg), as the 90% CIs for the slopes were contained within 0.839 to 1.161 and 0.839 to 1.107, respectively. <h3>Conclusions:</h3> The QD formulation of deutetrabenazine exhibits dose proportional pharmacokinetics for dose strengths (6mg, 12mg and 24mg), and across the full clinical dose range (6mg – 48mg). <b>Disclosure:</b> Dr. Sunzel has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Teva Pharmaceuticals. Dr. Sunzel has stock in Teva Pharmaceuticals. An immediate family member of Dr. Sunzel has stock in Incyte. Dr. Ghibellini has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Teva Pharmaceutical. Dr. Ghibellini has stock in Teva Pharmaceuticals. Ms. Iyengar has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Teva. Ms. Iyengar has stock in Teva. Dr. Gutierrez has stock in Teva. Mrs. Ruffo has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gordon has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Teva. Dr. Gordon has stock in Teva. Laura Rabinovich-Guilatt has received personal compensation for serving as an employee of Teva Pharmaceuticals. Laura Rabinovich-Guilatt has stock in Teva Pharmaceuticals.

Analysis of Daily Sleep Diary Measures From Multilayer Extended-Release Methylphenidate (PRC-063) Studies in Children and Adults With ADHD

Objective: To compare the effect of a once-daily extended-release methylphenidate formulation (PRC-063) versus placebo on sleep, measured via daily electronic diary in two clinical trials in pediatric (6–12 years) and adult (≥18 years) patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Method: A diary was completed by adult patients or parents/caregivers of pediatric patients during two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled laboratory classroom studies. Following dose optimization of PRC-063, patients were randomized to 1 week of double-blind treatment with PRC-063 or placebo before attending a full-day laboratory classroom session. Results: In the studies, 148 pediatric patients and 239 adult patients were randomized to either PRC-063 or placebo. When compared with the diaries of placebo patients, the sleep diaries in both pediatric and adult patients showed no statistical difference in total sleep time, efficiency, or latency. Conclusion: PRC-063 did not impact subjective measures of sleep versus placebo in pediatric and adult patients with ADHD.

Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group, Adult Laboratory Classroom Study of the Efficacy and Safety of PRC-063 (Extended-Release Methylphenidate) for the Treatment of ADHD

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and duration of action of the once-daily extended-release methylphenidate formulation PRC-063 for the treatment of ADHD in an adult laboratory classroom (ALC). Method: After dose optimization with PRC-063 over 7 weeks, adults with ADHD were randomized to 1 week of double-blind treatment with PRC-063 or placebo that ended with an ALC evaluation. The primary outcome measure was Permanent Product Measure of Performance-Total (PERMP-T) score. Results: Of 288 subjects enrolled, 221 completed the ALC visit. PERMP-T score was significantly higher for PRC-063 versus placebo at every assessment from 1 to 16 hours post-dose at the ALC visit and when averaged over 16 hours post-dose (least-squares mean difference 16.3, 95% confidence interval 7.6–24.9). The most frequent adverse events during dose optimization were headache, decreased appetite, and insomnia. Conclusion: PRC-063 provided rapid and sustained symptom relief in adults with ADHD and was well tolerated. NCT03618030.

Effect of CYP3A5 on the Once-Daily Tacrolimus Conversion in Stable Liver Transplant Patients.

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A5 polymorphism influences tacrolimus metabolism, but its effect on the drug pharmacokinetics in liver transplant recipients switched to once-daily extended-release formulation remains unknown. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of CYP3A5 polymorphism on liver function after once-daily tacrolimus conversion in liver transplant patients. A prospective open-label study included 60 stable liver transplant recipients who underwent 1:1 conversion from twice-daily tacrolimus to once-daily tacrolimus. All participants were genotyped for CYP3A5 polymorphism. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT 02882113). Twenty-eight patients were enrolled in the CYP3A5 expressor group and 32 in the non-expressor group. Although there was no statistical difference, incidence of liver dysfunction was higher in the expressor group than in the non-expressor group when converted to once-daily extended-release tacrolimus (p = 0.088). No biopsy-proven acute rejection, graft failure, and mortality were observed in either group. The decrease in dose-adjusted trough level (−42.9% vs. −26.1%) and dose/kg-adjusted trough level of tacrolimus (−40.0% vs. −23.7%) was significantly greater in the expressor group than in the non-expressors after the conversion. A pharmacokinetic analysis was performed in 10 patients and tacrolimus absorption in the non-expressor group was slower than in the expressor group. In line with this observation, the area under the curve for once-daily tacrolimus correlated with trough level (Cmin) in the non-expressors and peak concentration (Cmax) in the expressors. CYP3A5 genotyping in liver transplant recipients leads to prediction of pharmacokinetics after switching from a twice-daily regimen to a once-daily dosage form, which makes it possible to establish an appropriate dose of tacrolimus.

Safety and efficacy of upadacitinib in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and inadequate response to conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (SELECT-NEXT): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial

Upadacitinib is a selective inhibitor of Janus kinase 1 and was efficacious in phase 2 studies in patients with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis. We aimed to assess the efficacy of upadacitinib in patients with inadequate response to conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (csDMARDs). This study is a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial at 150 sites in 35 countries. We enrolled patients aged 18 years or older with active rheumatoid arthritis for 3 months or longer, who had received csDMARDs for at least 3 months with a stable dose for at least 4 weeks before study entry, and had an inadequate response to at least one of the following csDMARDs: methotrexate, sulfasalazine, or leflunomide. Using interactive response technology, we randomly assigned patients receiving stable background csDMARDs (2:2:1:1) to receive a once-daily extended-release formulation of upadacitinib 15 mg or 30 mg, or placebo, for 12 weeks. Patients, investigators, and the funder were masked to allocation. After 12 weeks, patients taking placebo received 15 mg or 30 mg of upadacitinib once daily, according to the prespecified randomisation assignment. The primary endpoints were the proportion of patients at week 12 who achieved 20% improvement in American College of Rheumatology criteria (ACR20), and a 28-joint disease activity score using C-reactive protein (DAS28[CRP]) of 3·2 or less. We did efficacy analyses in the full analysis set of all randomly assigned patients who received at least one dose of study drug, and used non-responder imputation for assessment of the primary outcomes. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT02675426. Between Dec 17, 2015, and Dec 22, 2016, 1083 patients were assessed for eligibility, of whom 661 were recruited and randomly assigned to receive upadacitinib 15 mg (n=221), upadacitinib 30 mg (n=219), or placebo (n=221). All patients received at least one dose of study drug, and 618 (93%) completed 12 weeks of treatment. At week 12, ACR20 was achieved by 141 (64%; 95% CI 58-70) of 221 patients receiving upadacitinib 15 mg and 145 (66%; 60-73) of 219 patients receiving upadacitinib 30 mg, compared with 79 (36%; 29-42) of 221 patients receiving placebo (p<0·0001 for each dose vs placebo). DAS28(CRP) of 3·2 or less was met by 107 (48%; 95% CI 42-55) patients receiving upadacitinib 15 mg and 105 (48%; 41-55) patients receiving upadacitinib 30 mg, compared with 38 (17%; 12-22) patients receiving placebo (p<0·0001 for each dose vs placebo). Adverse events were reported in 125 (57%) of 221 patients receiving upadacitinib 15 mg, 118 (54%) of 219 patients receiving upadacitinib 30 mg, and 108 (49%) of 221 patients receiving placebo. The most frequently reported adverse events (≥5% of patients in any group) were nausea (16 [7%] of 221 in the upadacitinib 15 mg group; three [1%] of 219 in the upadacitinib 30 mg group; and seven [3%] of 221 in the placebo group), nasopharyngitis (12 [5%]; 13 [6%]; and nine [4%]), upper respiratory tract infection (12 [5%]; 12 [5%]; and nine [4%]), and headache (nine [4%]; seven [3%]; and 12 [5%]). More infections were reported for upadacitinib (64 [29%] of 221 patients receiving 15 mg and 69 [32%] of 219 patients receiving 30 mg) versus placebo (47 [21%] of 221 patients). There were three herpes zoster infections (one [<1%] in the placebo group, one [<1%] in the upadacitinib 15 mg group, and one [<1%] in the upadacitinib 30 mg group) and one primary varicella zoster virus infection (one [<1%] in the upadacitinib 30 mg group), two malignancies (both in the upadacitinib 30 mg group), one adjudicated major adverse cardiovascular event (in the upadacitinib 30 mg group), and five serious infections (one [<1%] in the placebo group, one [<1%] in the upadacitinib 15 mg group, three [1%] in the upadacitinib 30 mg group). No deaths were reported during the trial. Patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who received upadacitinib (15 mg or 30 mg) in combination with csDMARDs showed significant improvements in clinical signs and symptoms. AbbVie Inc.

Novel Once-Daily Extended-Release Tacrolimus (LCPT) Versus Twice-Daily Tacrolimus in De Novo Kidney Transplants: One-Year Results of Phase III, Double-Blind, Randomized Trial

This Phase III randomized trial examined efficacy and safety of a novel once-daily extended-release tacrolimus formulation (LCP-Tacro [LCPT]) versus twice-daily tacrolimus in de novo kidney transplantation. Primary efficacy end point was proportion of patients with treatment failure (death, graft failure, biopsy-proven acute rejection or lost to follow-up) within 12 months. Starting doses were, LCPT: 0.17 mg/kg/day and tacrolimus twice-daily: 0.1 mg/kg/day; 543 patients were randomized, LCPT: n = 268; tacrolimus twice-daily: n = 275. At 12 months treatment failure was LCPT: 18.3% and tacrolimus twice-daily: 19.6%; the upper 95% CI of the treatment difference was +5.27%, below the predefined +10% noninferiority criteria. There were no significant differences in the incidence of individual efficacy events or adverse events. Target tacrolimus trough levels were more rapidly achieved in the LCPT group. Following initial dose, 36.6% of patients in the LCPT group had rapidly attained trough levels within 6-11 ng/mL versus 18.5% of tacrolimus twice-daily patients; majority of tacrolimus twice-daily patients (74.7%) had troughs <6 ng/mL compared with 33.5% in the LCPT group. Overall, cumulative study dose was 14% lower for LCPT. Results suggest that use of once-daily LCPT in de novo kidney transplantation is efficacious and safe. Lower LCPT dose reflects the improved absorption provided by the novel formulation.

Pramipexole extended-release: a review of its use in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Pramipexole, a non-ergolinic, D3-preferring dopamine agonist (DA), is well established as a treatment option for motor symptoms at all stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). It is administered orally and is available as both a three-times daily immediate-release (IR) formulation and a once-daily extended-release (ER) formulation (Mirapex(®) ER, Mirapexin(®) ER; Pexola(®) ER, Sifrol(®) ER). The two formulations are bioequivalent; the majority (>80 %) of patients can be switched overnight from pramipexole IR to ER without the need for dosage adjustment. In terms of improving activities of daily living and motor function in short-term (≤33-week), double-blind studies, pramipexole ER was noninferior to pramipexole IR and significantly more effective than placebo as monotherapy in patients with early PD, and similar to pramipexole IR and significantly more effective than placebo as adjunctive therapy to levodopa in patients with advanced PD. In long-term (80-week) extensions of these trials, open-label treatment with pramipexole ER was associated with sustained symptomatic benefit. Moreover, the majority of extension participants who responded to a simple convenience questionnaire expressed a preference for once-daily over three-times daily dosing. Pramipexole ER was generally well tolerated in clinical trials; no new or unexpected safety signals were identified compared with the IR formulation. Head-to-head trials are needed in order to fully define the role of pramipexole ER relative to other once-daily formulations of DAs (oral ropinirole and transdermal rotigotine). Nonetheless, by reducing the pill burden, the ER formulation of pramipexole provides a more convenient alternative to the IR formulation; studies specifically testing whether this translates into improved patient compliance and symptom control are worthwhile.

Current therapy for Parkinson's disease

The main goal of therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD) is to correct dopamine deficiency in the nigrostriatal system. Levodopa preparations and dopamine receptor agonists (DRAs) that are prescribed with regards to patient age and disease severity are mainly used now. Notwithstanding the fact that levodopa preparations are the gold standard of therapy, their long-term use gives rise to complications as motor fluctuations and drug-induced dyskinesias. The currently available DRAs are the drugs of choice for the therapy of early-stage PD as they are as effective as levodopa preparations. In extensive-stage PD, DRAs are used to enhance the therapy and correction of developed motor fluctuations and dyskinesias. Pramipexole is one of the most commonly used representatives of non-ergoline DRAs. The paper analyzes the efficacy of the medication used as both monotherapy and part of combined therapy, its effect on tremor and depression in PD. A novel extended-release formulation of pramipexole is considered separately. Both immediate- and extended-release pramipexole formulations contain the same active ingredient and have the same dopamine-receptor interaction profile, but differ in the tablet release rate of the active ingredient. The advantages of the novel formulation are its more steady-state plasma concentration and 24-hour action, which ensures continuous dopaminergic stimulation of postsynaptic receptors to prevent and treat already developed motor complications. The once-daily extended-release formulation of the drug makes its treatment regimen easier and patient compliance higher.

236 The once-daily tacrolimus extended-release formulation provides similar drug exposure in non-CF and CF lung transplant recipients when compared to the conventional twice-daily formulation

236 The once-daily tacrolimus extended-release formulation provides similar drug exposure in non-CF and CF lung transplant recipients when compared to the conventional twice-daily formulation

Long-term safety and sustained efficacy of extended-release pramipexole in early and advanced Parkinson's disease.

Background and purposeTo assess the long-term safety and efficacy of pramipexole as a once-daily (q.d.) extended-release oral formulation in early or advanced Parkinson's disease (PD).MethodsIn two double-blind (DB) studies of early PD and one of advanced PD, active-treatment arms received pramipexole immediate release (IR) or extended release (ER), with exposure lasting up to 33 weeks. In open-label (OL) extensions that followed immediately, subjects took ER q.d. for up to 80 weeks, with dosage adjustment permitted (range 0.375–4.5 mg q.d.).ResultsOf 590 subjects completing an early-PD DB study, 511 entered the early-PD OL extension; 408 completed it. Reported adverse events (AEs) with incidence ≥10.0% were somnolence (15.1%), peripheral edema (11.7%) and back pain (10.6%). Of 465 subjects completing the advanced-PD DB study, 391 entered the advanced-PD OL extension; 329 completed it. Reported AEs with incidence ≥10.0% were dyskinesia (27.4%) and somnolence (13.6%). Impulse control disorders were identified by semi-structured interview in 13 subjects (1.4% of 902). In exploratory analyses, adjusted mean Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Parts II + III scores (excluding ex-placebo recipients) remained substantially improved from DB baseline scores prior to pramipexole introduction, at −6.6 and −6.3 points amongst ex-DB-ER and ex-DB-IR recipients after 113 weeks of pramipexole (33 DB plus 80 OL) in early PD, and −11.5 and −9.1 after up to 113 weeks (up to 33 DB plus 80 OL) in advanced PD.ConclusionsThese results support the long-term safety and efficacy of pramipexole ER in early and advanced PD. AEs were typical for dopaminergic medications, and UPDRS scores suggested sustained symptomatic benefit.

Efficacy and Safety of a Once-daily Extended-release Formulation of Pramipexole Switched from an Immediate-release Formulation in Patients with Advanced Parkinson’s Disease: Results from an Open-label Study

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an extended-release tablet formulation of pramipexole (PPX-ER) given once daily when switched from an immediate-release tablet formulation (PPX-IR) given 3 times daily. This open-label study included 29 patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) who were followed for 8 weeks. Primary endpoints were Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) part III score, a physician evaluation of motor symptoms; nocturnal and early morning symptoms (NEMS) score, based on the results for 4 items in the Parkinson's Disease Sleep Scale and the Movement Disorder Society - sponsored revision of the UPDRS; and patients' formulation preference, determined through questionnaires. Secondary endpoints were nocturnal sleep disturbance, evaluated using the revised version of the Parkinson's Disease Sleep Scale (PDSS-2); quality of life, evaluated using the 39-item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39); Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) score; Patient Global Impression-Improvement (PGI-I) score; and caregiver formulation preference. UPDRS part III score (mean ± SD) was significantly decreased after 4 weeks (13.9 ± 7.3; P=0.030) and 8 weeks (12.2 ± 7.3; P<0.001) from baseline (15.3 ± 7.0). However, no significant change was found in NEMS scale, PDSS-2 or PDQ-39 scores. After 8 weeks, the responder rates based on CGI-I and PGI-I scores were 27.6% and 20.7%, respectively. As a result of the questionnaire, 63.0% of patients and 58.8% of their caregivers preferred PPX-ER. A non-serious drug-related adverse event (diarrhea) was observed in one patient. In conclusion, PPX-ER can be considered as a useful treatment option when PPX-IR needs to be switched to other dopamine agonists.This study is registered with UMIN-CTR (UMIN000006521).

Efficacy and Tolerability of SPN-804, a Novel, Once-Daily Extended-Release Formulation of Oxcarbazepine as Adjunctive Therapy in Patients with Refractory Partial Seizures (P06.101)

Efficacy and Tolerability of SPN-804, a Novel, Once-Daily Extended-Release Formulation of Oxcarbazepine as Adjunctive Therapy in Patients with Refractory Partial Seizures (P06.101)

Gabapentin for once-daily treatment of post-herpetic neuralgia: a review

Post-herpetic neuralgia is a neuropathic pain syndrome resulting from an insult to the peripheral and central nervous systems caused by the varicella zoster virus. Spontaneous pain may result in the persistent sensation of burning, tingling, or aching and may be associated with thermally or mechanically provoked pain, resulting in hyperalgesia or allodynia. The majority of cases occur in patients over the age of 50 years. Gabapentin is a structural analog of gamma aminobutyric acid that binds to the α2-δ site of voltage-dependent calcium channels and modulates the influx of calcium, with a resulting reduction in excitatory neurotransmitter release. Gabapentin is effective in reducing neuropathic pain due to post-herpetic neuralgia when given at least three times per day, due to its short half-life, resulting in demonstrable fluctuations in plasma levels. Gabapentin has dose-limiting side effects that prevent some patients from achieving therapeutic plasma levels, such as somnolence (27.4%), dizziness (23.9%), and ataxia (7.1%). Gralise™ is a once-daily extended-release formulation of gabapentin that has been developed using AcuForm™ technology. AcuForm is a polymer-based drug delivery system that retains the tablet in the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract for a sustained period of time. Once-daily dosing has been shown to provide comparable drug exposure with an identical daily dose of the immediate-release formulation when administered three times daily. Participants given Gralise 1800 mg daily had a statistically significant reduction in average daily pain intensity scores compared with placebo, reduced sleep interference due to pain, and a greater percent of participants reporting being much or very much improved on the patient global impression of change. An analysis comparing the efficacy and safety profiles in the aging population (≥65 years) with those younger than 65 years showed that Gralise is effective and well tolerated in both age groups.

Patient considerations in early management of Parkinson&amp;rsquo;s disease: focus on extended-release pramipexole

This article reviews the role of an extended-release formulation of pramipexole in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease at an early stage. Pramipexole is a nonergot D2/D3 synthetic aminobenzothiazole derivative that is effective as monotherapy in early disease and as an adjunct to levodopa in patients with motor fluctuations. Although levodopa is the current “gold standard” for treatment of Parkinson’s disease, its effectiveness fades rapidly and its use results in serious motor fluctuations (on-off, wearing-off, freezing, involuntary movements) for most patients with the disease. Pramipexole has selective actions at dopamine receptors belonging to the D2 subfamily, where it possesses full activity similar to dopamine itself. Its preferential affinity for the D3 receptor subtype could contribute to its efficacy in the treatment of both the motor and psychiatric symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The best approach to medical management of early Parkinson’s disease remains controversial. While enormous progress has been made in the treatment of the disease, challenges still remain. A variety of treatment-related and patient-related factors must be taken into account when making these decisions. The current approach to treatment of early Parkinson’s disease depends in part on individual patient factors, including age, severity and nature of symptoms and their impact, presence of cognitive dysfunction, possible underlying behavioral factors predisposing to impulse control disorders, and other comorbidities. Today, the once-daily extended-release formulation of pramipexole offers the advantages of easy continuous delivery of drug and convenience to patients, particularly early in the disease when monotherapy is the rule. Thus, a new “levodopa-sparing” paradigm for treating Parkinson’s disease may now be possible, whereby patients are initially treated with pramipexole and levodopa is added only as necessary.

Bioavailability of Extended-Release Nevirapine 400 and 300 mg in HIV-1: A Multicenter, Open-Label Study

Background Nevirapine (NVP) is a widely used non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor. A once-daily extended-release (XR) formulation would potentially increase adherence and thus efficacy. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the steady-state bioavailability of 2 once-daily tablet formulations of NVP XR (containing 25% or 20% hypromellose; NVP XR25 and NVP XR20, respectively) in 400- or 300-mg tablets compared with twice-daily immediate-release (IR) NVP 200-mg tablets. Methods This Phase Ib multinational, multicenter, open-label trial was conducted in patients aged 18 to 60 years, infected with HIV-1 (viral load, ≤50 copies/mL), and treated for ≥12 weeks with twice-daily NVP IR 200 mg. Patients were switched to NVP XR25 400 or 300 mg or NVP XR20 400 or 300 mg for 19 days. Plasma samples were collected over 24-hour periods at steady state. Primary end points were AUC 0–24,ss, C max,ss, and C min,ss, analyzed using an ANOVA statistical model on the logarithmic scale and 2-sided 90% CI. Sample size was determined assuming an intrasubject %CV of 20% for C max. Adverse events (AEs) and viral loads were monitored. Results Ninety-two patients were enrolled (NVP XR25 400 mg, 24 patients; NVP XR20 400 mg, 24; NVP XR25 300 mg, 21; NVP XR20 300 mg, 23). Compared with NVP IR, the AUC 0–24,ss values of the NVP XR formulations were lower (test/reference ratios: 79.5% [90% CI, 73.0–86.7; P = 0.544], 71.0% [90% CI, 63.3–79.7; P = 0.956], 90.3% [90% CI, 80.4–101.4; P = 0.044], and 83.7% [90% CI, 77.9–89.9; P = 0.148] with NVP XR25 400 mg, NVP XR20 400 mg, NVP XR25 300 mg, and NVP XR20 300 mg, respectively). The relative bioavailability of NVP XR25 was greater compared with that of NVP XR20. C max,ss values were lower with all NVP XR formulations compared with NVP IR. For C min,ss, NVP XR25 400 and 300 mg were not significantly different from NVP IR, with 90% CIs within the range of 80% to 125% ( P = 0.039 and P = 0.017, respectively). All AEs were mild or moderate, with no significant differences between treatment groups. No virologic failures (viral load, >50 copies/mL over 2 consecutive readings) were observed. Conclusions Extent of bioavailability was lower and t max,ss was delayed with all NVP XR formulations compared with NVP IR. The bioavailability of the NVP XR25 formulations was greater than that of the NVP XR20 formulations. C min,ss with NVP XR25 was similar to that with NVP IR. All of the NVP XR formulations were well tolerated. The 400-mg NVP XR25 formulation was selected for further development.

Extended-release pramipexole in advanced Parkinson disease

In advanced Parkinson disease (PD), immediate-release pramipexole, taken 3 times daily, improves symptoms and quality of life. A once-daily extended-release formulation may be an effective and simple alternative therapy. For a multicenter randomized, double-blind, parallel trial of extended- and immediate-release pramipexole vs placebo, patients experiencing motor fluctuations while taking levodopa underwent flexible study drug titration and then maintenance at optimized dosage (0.375-4.5 mg/day). The primary endpoint was a change in the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) part II+III score at 18 weeks, with further assessments at 33 weeks in a subset of patients. Adverse events were recorded throughout. Among 507 patients in the 18-week analyses, UPDRS II+III scores decreased (from baseline means of 40.0-41.7) by an adjusted mean of -11.0 for extended-release pramipexole and -12.8 for immediate-release pramipexole vs -6.1 for placebo (p = 0.0001 and p < 0.0001) and off-time decreased (from baseline means of 5.8-6.0 hours/day) by an adjusted mean of -2.1 and -2.5 vs -1.4 hours/day (p = 0.0199 and p < 0.0001). Other outcomes were largely corroborative, including a significant improvement in early morning off symptoms. Among 249 pramipexole patients completing 33 weeks, UPDRS II+III and off-time findings showed ≤10.1% change from 18-week values. Both formulations were well-tolerated. Extended-release pramipexole significantly improved UPDRS score and off-time compared with placebo, with similar efficacy, tolerability, and safety of immediate-release pramipexole compared with placebo. This study provides Class I evidence that the extended-release form of pramipexole, taken once daily, is efficacious as an adjunct to levodopa in advanced PD.

Extended-release pramipexole in early Parkinson disease

To assess the clinical efficacy of a novel once-daily extended-release (ER) formulation of the dopamine agonist pramipexole as monotherapy in patients with early Parkinson disease (PD) and establish its noninferiority vs standard immediate-release (IR) pramipexole. This was a multicenter, double-blind, parallel study of patients with early PD not receiving levodopa or dopamine agonists, randomly assigned to pramipexole IR, pramipexole ER, or placebo. Seven-week flexible titration was followed by 26-week maintenance, with levodopa permitted as rescue medication. The primary analysis was to test pramipexole ER noninferiority to pramipexole IR based on a change in the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) part II+III score at 33 weeks, with noninferiority predefined as a treatment group difference for which the lower bound of the 95% confidence interval (CI) did not exceed -3 points. Among 213 ER and 207 IR recipients, the adjusted mean 33-week UPDRS II+III change (excluding levodopa rescue effects) was -8.2 for ER and -8.7 for IR, a difference of -0.5 with a 95% CI of -2.3 to 1.3. Compared with placebo (n = 103), pramipexole ER and pramipexole IR were significantly superior on UPDRS II+III score, all key secondary outcomes, and almost all other endpoints. On the 39-item Parkinson Disease Questionnaire, superiority of pramipexole ER failed to reach statistical significance. Both formulations were equally safe and well-tolerated. As monotherapy for early PD, pramipexole ER was noninferior to pramipexole IR and significantly more effective than placebo. Tolerability and safety did not differ between the formulations. This study provides Class I evidence that pramipexole ER is not inferior to pramipexole IR in patients with early PD.

Comparative pharmacokinetic analysis of USL255, a new once-daily extended-release formulation of topiramate

To compare the pharmacokinetics of USL255, a once-daily extended-release (ER) formulation of topiramate (TPM), with Topamax (immediate-release TPM) in healthy subjects after oral dosing and evaluate the effect of food on USL255 bioavailability and pharmacokinetics. This randomized, single-center, open-label, cross-over design study had three dosing periods separated by 21 days of washout between treatments. Thirty-six volunteers received single doses of USL255 (200 mg) in fasted and fed conditions and two doses of Topamax (100 mg) administered 12 h apart. TPM plasma samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by noncompartmental methods. USL255 fasted pharmacokinetic parameters [point estimate (90% confidence interval, CI) compared to Topamax] were: relative bioavailability (F) 91.2% (84-99%), peak plasma concentration (C(max)) USL255/Topamax-ratio 59% (53-65%), time to reach C(max) (t(max)) 19.5 ± 7.2 h, accumulation ratio (R(ac)) 3.9 ± 1.2, effective half-life (t(1/2,eff)) 55.7 ± 19.9 h, terminal half-life (t(1/2,z)) 80.2 ± 14.2 h, and peak-occupancy-time (POT) 12.1 ± 4.0 h. Although the F and C(max) were unaffected by food, R(ac) and t(1/2,eff) increased to 4.9 ± 0.9, and 72.5 ± 15.4 h, respectively. In contrast to t(1/2,z,) t(1/2,eff) reflects absorption rate; therefore, USL255's t(1/2,eff) was significantly longer than Topamax's t(1/2,eff) (37.1 ± 6.5 h). Although bioequivalent to Topamax in extent of absorption, USL255 had a slower absorption rate as reflected in its lower C(max) and longer t(max), larger POT and longer t(1/2,eff), and similar R(ac) values to that of Topamax (q12 h). This relative flat plasma profile allows for once-daily dosing with diminished fluctuations in TPM plasma levels. In addition, neither USL255's peak nor extent of plasma exposure of TPM was affected by food.